INTRODUCTION:

       A.  When the message of Jesus Christ is preached various things can happen.

       B.  Those who are true Christians have experienced these 5 things.

       C.  In this lesson we will examine these 5 principles to help us continue them
             in our lives instead of making them one time actions.

   I.  YOU RECEIVED THE WORD - V. 13. 

       A.  Paul preached God's justice - Romans 1-2.

       B.  Paul preached Christ' Deity - Colossians 1:15-17.

            1.  Acts 2:22-24.

       C.  Paul preached the work of the cross - Romans 3:21-31.

       D.  Paul preached assurance - Colossians 1:3-5.

  II.   YOU ACCEPTED - V. 13. 

       A.  Acts 2:36-47 - they accepted.

            1.  What shall we do?

       B.  Colossians 3:16.

       C.  Accepted what? - Romans 5:1-10.

 III.  WORKS IN YOU - V. 13. 

       A.  This work causes: (1:3)

             1.  Work of faith.

             2.  Labor of love.

             3.  Patience of hope.

       B.  The Word causes men to walk after God.

             1.  Psalm 119:105.

  IV.  BECAME IMITATORS - V. 14. 

       A.  Of the Lord - 1:6.

       B.  An example - 1:7.

       C.  Left the worldly ways for God - 1:9.

       D.  Of love - Ephesians 5:1-2.

   V.  YOU SUFFERED - V. 15. 

       A.  This is a sure thing to befall a Christian.

       B.  Helps the Word to be spread.

            1.  Acts 8:4.

            2.  Paul is strengthened - Phillippians 1:12-17.

   CONCLUSION:

       A.  Have you received the Word?  

       B.  Have you accepted the Word?

       C.  Do you let the Word work in your life?

       D.  Are you imitators?  Good examples?

       E.  Do you suffer for God's cause?